Although Price got unsteadily back to his feet, the fight was called off by referee Steve Gray, leaving the 6,000 crowd silent.

But in the short time Price had on his feet, he seemed to have the beating of Thompson and may still be favourite should the rematch clause in the two fighters' contracts produce a round two - something the American is adamant will not happen.

Whatever the setback for Price, the 29-year-old remains in a positive frame of mind about his career prospects and said this defeat may be a blessing in disguise.

"It's disappointing but to be honest it's not the end of the world," Price said. "Sh*t happens - I know that more than anyone. I'll come back stronger and I know everyone says that, but what happened there was more of a freak than anything.

"I'm not going to be too downhearted about it, even though I'm gutted. I can't feel sorry for myself, I've just got to get my arse back to where I was. It might take a bit longer but I've got time.

"It's happened to the best heavyweights over the years and with a bit of luck it might turn out to be the best thing that's happened to me."